Flowerland Nursery, Albany

Flowerland Nursery opened in 1947. When I was a landscaper in the '90s and aughts, Flowerland was the place to buy sod---those pregrown rolls of grass that provide instant garden greenification.

My, how things have changed, at least on this side of the Caldecott Tunnel. Garden designers I know would be abashed to spec a lawn today.

Flowerland has been redesigned, too. Under new ownership since 2008, sod has long disappeared from the inventory. Outside, the old marquee sign still amuses pedestrians with pithy horticultural puns. Inside, Flowerland's become an East Bay nursery destination offering Highwire Coffee from an airstream trailer, Fermob French modern garden furniture, and the most beautiful pots and plants. You can also expect the best garden advice from professional plant experts like Griff Hulsey.